Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy Review
- Price: $6200
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: HUTCHINSON FUSION 5 TUBELESS READY 700 X 25
- Gear: 2×12 Electronic
What we like about it: The 100% carbon fiber 38mm LOOK wheels with 785Huez frame are very responsive and have a very good increase in speed.
What we don’t like about it: At this price level, the handlebars and stems are aluminum. This does not meet the demands of racing very well.
Rating: (4.8/5)
The Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy is a renowned design by Look Cycle, a prominent French bicycle manufacturer.
Throughout their history, they have demonstrated remarkable performance in professional cycling competitions. They have achieved impressive awards in various global events, so I have high expectations for this bike.
However, due to the aluminum stem and handlebars adding some extra weight, it might impose certain limitations on cycling speed. I thought its racing performance might not be as great as I had hoped.
Nevertheless, I still participated in races with this bike and was pleasantly surprised by its exceptional performance.
In the following sections, we will analyze the riding experience, main features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy.
Additionally, in the latter part of this article, we will compare it to several other top bicycle models. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, you can follow us.
Riding Experience
As a carbon fiber frame racing bicycle, its racing capabilities are of great interest to us. So our team purchased plane tickets through Skyscanner, booked hotels, and arrived at the TD Five Boro Bike Tour race.
The route is a challenging 40.77-mile ride that includes traversing Central Park. The elevation is high, and there are significant uphill and downhill sections. Moreover, there is a strong wind on two large bridges, and I anticipated encountering substantial resistance during the ride.
Uphill and Downhill Challenges
In Central Park, uphill sections might be the first challenge I faced on this course. However, for the Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy, it wasn’t too difficult.
The 2×12 Electronic drivetrain helped me shift gears effortlessly, quickly, and accurately, maximizing power with minimal gear ratios. This allowed me to conserve energy effectively and allocate it well throughout this long route.
To avoid tipping over, I firmly gripped the LOOK LS2 ALLOY handlebars and leaned my body forward. The 415mm chainstay helped shift my weight forward, providing the front wheel with greater traction while maintaining speed.
On the other hand, downhill presented the second challenge. While riding at high speeds, there were some small gravel and tree branches on the road. However, the concerns I had didn’t materialize.
The slight drop in the front portion of the saddle helped reduce pressure when the wheels encountered gravel or stones. Additionally, the MARCO SHORT FIT DYNAMIC relieved pressure on my buttocks.
It has a comfortable shape, and the padding is very sturdy, providing excellent support. Therefore, I felt stable and comfortable throughout the descent, leaving me with a positive first impression of the bike.
Riding on Bridges
When riding on the bridges, the area is quite open. Overcoming headwinds and crosswinds becomes a challenging task. This requires significant personal power and bike tires that can provide strong friction.
Luckily, the energy I saved in Central Park played a significant role here. Furthermore, the premium HUTCHINSON FUSION 5 tubeless tires, designed with the ElevenSTORM compound concept, offer a powerful grip, allowing me to cut through the wind like a bullet.
Road Cycling
It’s important to note that this is a city bike race, and a significant portion of the race takes place on the road. The HUTCHINSON FUSION 5 tires have a reinforced Kevlar tread, providing excellent durability.
Moreover, the SRAM Rival chain uses Flattop technology, which creates a lighter, quieter, and stronger chain. I don’t hear any noise from chain friction while riding, allowing me to focus more on the road ahead and complete the entire race faster.
Overall, this is an outstanding bike that performs exceptionally well in different road conditions. I must admit, the Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy has deeply captivated me.
Specification
The Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy is an excellent carbon fiber frame racing bicycle. The carbon frame offers high strength and low weight, allowing for fast and stable riding, which is essential for competitive cycling.
Additionally, this bike features the impressive MARCO SHORT FIT DYNAMIC saddle. Its wave-shaped profile provides excellent pelvic support, and the Open-Fit cutout relieves pressure on sensitive areas for riders.
The combination ensures a comfortable riding experience for every cyclist.
The bike has a head tube angle of 73°, which is steep, making it highly maneuverable. The 65mm BB Drop effectively lowers the rider’s center of gravity, resulting in a smooth ride.
Video
Other Versions
After numerous tests, we have gained a deeper understanding of this bike. It is an excellent hardtail mountain bike.
However, many riders have their own performance requirements or component preferences. Therefore, we have investigated other bikes of the same type.
Look 785 Huez RS Proteam White Glossy
The geometry of these two bikes is identical. However, the Shimano Dura Ace 9200 Di2 overall performance of the Look 785 Huez RS Proteam White Glossy surpasses the SRAM Rival AXS wireless kit of the Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy.
Firstly, the Shimano Dura Ace is lighter in weight. However, the chainring stiffness is lower than that of the SRAM Red AXS. This is mainly because the SRAM Red AXS chainring is made from a single piece of material, which can cause significant trouble during repairs.
Once the chainring wears out, both need to be replaced. Meanwhile, the Shimano Dura Ace is fixed with chainring bolts, providing lower stiffness but easier maintenance.
The Look 785 Huez RS Proteam White Glossy has a simple and minimalist white appearance, which differs significantly from the red body of the Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy.
So if you prefer white and have a sufficient budget, the RS Proteam White Glossy is more suitable for you. If you prefer red and prioritize easy maintenance and upkeep, I recommend choosing the R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy.
What do we like about it?
- The combination of 100% carbon fiber 38mm LOOK wheels with the 785 Huez frame provides excellent responsiveness and a significant speed improvement.
- The SRAM wireless groupset: Rival AXS offers versatile functionality.
- The lightweight frame made of LOOK carbon fiber achieves a balance between lightweight design and durability.
- In terms of appearance, the bold red color exudes passion.
What don’t we like about it?
- At this price range, the handlebars and stems are made of aluminum, which may not meet the requirements for competitive use.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
Both beginners and experienced riders can handle this bike well.
- Is the gearbox of this bike wired or wireless?
The gearbox is wireless hydraulic.
- Are the tires tubeless?
The bike is equipped with HUTCHINSON FUSION 5 tires, which are clincher tires.
- How to choose the right size?
The size chart is as follows:
These sizes are just general guidelines, and the best way to find the right size for you is to try it out.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 156cm-166cm | XS |
| 163cm-174cm | SM |
| 171cm-182cm | MD |
| 179cm-189cm | LG |
| 185cm-195cm | XL |
Specs
Build
| Frame | carbon BB Standard: BB86/BB92, 86.5mm, Press Fit |
| Bottom Bracket | BB PF 86.5 / Token Ninja SRAM DUB |
| Stem | LOOK LS1 ALLOY SL (XS 90/S 100 / M – L 110 / XL 120) |
| Handlebar | LOOK LS2 ALLOY (XS – S 40 / M-L 42 / XL 44) |
| Saddle | LOOK by S MARCO SHORT FIT DYNAMIC open fit |
| Seatpost | LOOK LS2 CARBON 27.2 mm 350 mm |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM RIVAL ETAP AXS WIRELESS |
| Crank | SRAM RIVAL DUB 48 x 35 (XS-S 170/M-L 172,5 /XL 175) |
| Shifters | SRAM RIVAL ETAP AXS WIRELESS HYDRAULIC |
| Cassette | SRAM RIVAL 12 SPEED 10 x 30 XG 1250 |
| Chain | SRAM RIVAL 12 |
| Brakes | Hydraulic Disc |
Wheels
| Rims | LOOK R 38 D CARBON TUBELESS |
| Tires | HUTCHINSON FUSION 5 TUBELESS READY 700 X 25 |
| Disk Rotors | SRAM CENTERLOCK F: 160 mm R : 140 mm |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click to view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame material | Groupset |
| Trek Emonda SL 7 | Click View | Bontrager R2 Hard-Case Lite | 2×12 Electronic | Carbon | Shimano Ultegra Di2 |
| Canyon Ultimate CF SLX 8 Di2 | Click View | Schwalbe Pro One | 2×12 Electronic | Carbon | Shimano Ultegra Di2 |
| BMC Teammachine SLR01 FIVE | Click View | Vittoria Corsa – 25mm | 2×12 Electronic | Carbon | Shimano Ultegra Di2 |
| Cannondale SuperSix EVO Carbon Disc Ultegra Di2 | Click View | Vittoria Rubino Pro Bright Black, 700x25c | 2×12 Electronic | Carbon | Shimano Ultegra Di2 |
Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy vs Trek Emonda SL 7
As high-priced bicycles, the frame materials of both bikes are quite similar. However, there are notable differences in components. The Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy comes equipped with SRAM Rival eTap, which is slightly heavier than the Shimano Ultegra Di2 found on the Trek Émonda SL 7.
Additionally, the latter features a 12-speed Shimano ULTEGRA R8150 rear derailleur with integrated wireless capabilities. Its front derailleur is also the same component, but it has been optimized to be smaller, lighter, and provide faster front shifting. On the other hand, the SRAM RIVAL ETAP AXS WIRELESS on the Look 785 Huez R38D offers multiple gear options, allowing customization based on specific preferences.
So, if you prefer a bike that offers more personalization, I would recommend the Look 785 Huez R38D. If you lean towards a lightweight bike, the Trek Émonda SL 7 would be more suitable for you.
Learn More: Is Trek Emonda ALR 5 Worth Buying? [Trek Emonda ALR 5 Review]
Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy vs Canyon Ultimate CF SLX 8 Di2
The Canyon Ultimate CF SLX 8 Di2 offers two tire size options, 650c and 700c. On the other hand, the Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy only has one tire choice, providing riders with fewer options.
The Canyon Ultimate CF SLX 8 Di2 comes with Bontrager R2 Hard-Case Lite tires. These tires feature Hard-Case Lite puncture protection and their lightweight tread pattern provides increased traction and durability, boosting rider confidence in all road conditions.
The Look 785 Huez R38D features HUTCHINSON FUSION 5 TUBELESS READY tires with a perfect 700×25 profile. This combination ensures a perfect balance of performance, comfort, grip, and durability.
In conclusion, if you desire more tire options, the Canyon Ultimate CF SLX 8 Di2 would be a better choice. If you prioritize a bike with excellent overall performance, I believe the Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy would be a suitable option for you.
Learn More: Is Canyon Ultimate CF SL 8 Aero Worth Buying? [Canyon Ultimate CF SL 8 Aero Review]
Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy vs BMC Teammachine SLR01 FIVE
The Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy has a higher stack/reach ratio compared to the BMC Teammachine SLR01 FIVE. This means that the former offers more comfort, while the latter leans more towards competitive riding.
However, in terms of safety, the BMC Teammachine SLR01 FIVE has a higher standover height than the Look 785 Huez R38D. The combination of the BMC Teammachine SLR01 FIVE’s standover height and its excellent BMC Teammachine SLR01 FIVE brakes provides a better sense of security. This allows riders to decelerate or stop the bike more smoothly, thereby avoiding unexpected situations.
Therefore, if you prioritize safer riding, the BMC Teammachine SLR01 FIVE would be more suitable for you. If you seek a comfortable riding experience, the Look 785 Huez R38D would be a better choice.
Learn More: Is BMC Teammachine SLR ONE Worth Buying? [BMC Teammachine SLR ONE Review]
Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy vs Cannondale SuperSix EVO Carbon Disc Ultegra Di2
The Cannondale SuperSix EVO Carbon Disc Ultegra Di2 is equipped with the HollowGram SAVE SystemBar as its handlebar. This is a carbon handlebar that balances weight and strength. When paired with the SAVE or KNØT SystemStem, riders can enjoy the speed and aesthetics of a one-piece system with the adjustability of a two-piece. On the other hand, the Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy comes with the LOOK LS2 ALLOY aluminum handlebar, which naturally offers a price advantage.
In addition, the Look 785 Huez R38D provides more size options compared to the Cannondale SuperSix EVO Carbon Disc Ultegra Di2. However, the stack/reach ratio of the Look 785 Huez R38D is greater than that of the Cannondale SuperSix EVO Carbon Disc Ultegra Di2, meaning it offers a slightly more comfortable riding position.
Therefore, if you prioritize a more comfortable riding experience, the Look 785 Huez R38D would be a great choice. If you value aesthetics and components, I would recommend the Cannondale SuperSix EVO Carbon Disc Ultegra Di2.
Learn More: Is Cannondale SuperSix EVO SE Worth Buying? [Cannondale SuperSix EVO SE Review]
Summary
Above is our review of the Look 785 Huez R38D Interference Red Mat Glossy. It is an excellent carbon fiber frame racing bicycle that provides a great racing experience. In my opinion, it is a bike worth purchasing. Taking everything into account, we give it a high rating of 4.8. If you’re interested in more bicycle information, feel free to check out our related tests.
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